Charles Phan, who made his reputation at Slanted Door serving Vietnamese food, opened two restaurants within a week of each other serving Southern food.

A few weeks ago I reviewed Hard Water, which has views overlooking the bay, and while it hasn’t entirely found its sea legs it’s obvious that there’s passion and commitment behind the venture.

I had a different impression of South. It seems like the owner and both the front and back of the house staffs are dialing it in. I realize that restaurants in cultural institutions cater to a captive audience, and maybe that’s good enough, but South (1.5 stars) seems like a missed opportunity.

With large windows overlooking Fell Street, it has a prominent street presence and could be a place that attracts a wider public. However, if my three visits were any indication, they decided to settle for just the SFJazz patrons. Aside from the cornmeal-dusted fried chicken, the black-eye pea succotash and a few other dishes, the food is mostly forgettable. It’s probably OK if you’re trying to catch a performance, but not good enough to be a bonafide destination.